The integration of Samsung smartwatches into the Xiaomi ecosystem often raises questions among users, since both brands have their own unique software shells. Galaxy Watch 3 was originally created to work with the flagships of the South Korean company, but their functionality is available on Android devices from other manufacturers. The setup process requires care, especially in terms of permissions for background processes, so that the gadgets work stably.
Owners of Mi and Redmi smartphones face aggressive battery optimization that can interrupt Bluetooth connection.To avoid constant communication breaks and loss of notifications, you need to properly configure MIUI or HyperOS. In this article, we will examine all the nuances, from installing the necessary applications to hidden power saving settings.
Successful pairing gives you access to health monitoring, instant messenger notifications, and music control right from your wrist. To keep your watch running on Xiaomi, it’s critical to turn off automatic memory cleansing for Samsung’s utility apps. Let’s take a closer look at each step to ensure your device runs smoothly.
Preparation of equipment and software
Before starting the procedure, make sure that your Xiaomi smartphone is running the current version of Android (preferably at least 10). Galaxy Watch 3 requires a specific version of the operating system to correctly display the dials and the sensors. Charge both devices to at least 50%, as the initial synchronization and firmware update process can take considerable time.
You'll need a stable Wi-Fi connection. Mobile internet can be unstable when loading large data packets for watches. Also check if the Bluetooth module is turned on in your phone's notification curtain.
The main tool for managing the watch will be the Galaxy Wearable app, which can be found on the Google Play store, but depending on the region and version of the watch, the system may request the installation of an additional plugin.
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Before installing apps, clear the Google Play store cache to avoid downloading errors of older versions of components.
Installation of the necessary applications and plugins
The key is to get the software installed correctly. Just downloading a Galaxy Wearable is often not enough, as the watch may require specific service modules.
Follow the following steps to prepare the software environment:
- 📲 Go to Google Play and find the Galaxy Wearable app, then click “Install».
- 📲 After installation, launch the app, but don’t plug in the clock yet.
- 📲 The system will automatically determine the model and prompt you to install the Samsung Gear Plugin (or Watch3 Plugin).
- 📲 You can install all the required components, including Samsung Accessory Service.
Sometimes, automatic plugin installation can fail on Xiaomi devices, in which case the plugin will have to be found and installed manually through a search in the app store. Without this component, the watch will not be able to transmit data about the pulse and steps.
☑️ Checking before connection
The process of pairing a clock with a phone
Once all the apps are installed, you can go to the direct device connection. Turn on the Galaxy Watch 3 with the side button pressed and wait for the welcome screen.
Open the Galaxy Wearable app on a Xiaomi smartphone and click Start. The phone will start searching for available devices. Once the name of your watch appears on the list, tap it.
The watch and smartphone will have a digital code on their screen, make sure the codes match, and confirm pairing on both devices, at which point the system can request permission to access contacts, call logs and location — grant all the rights requested, otherwise the functionality will be limited.
⚠️ Warning: If the pairing request appears but disappears immediately or gives an error, reboot the Bluetooth module on your phone (turn on and off Flight Mode) and try again.
Once the connection is successful, the process of synchronizing the data and checking for updates will begin.
Configure permissions in MIUI and HyperOS
This is the most important milestone for Xiaomi owners: MIUI's aggressive energy-saving system by default "kills" background processes, causing the watch to disconnect from the phone after hours of operation.
You need to manually configure permissions for three applications: Galaxy Wearable, Samsung Gear Plugin and Samsung Accessory Service.
- Go to Settings → Applications → All applications.
- Find the right app (e.g. Galaxy Wearable) in the list.
- Go to the Battery (or “Energy Saving”).
- Select the option “No restrictions”.
- Go back and turn on the Autostart switch.
- Also turn on the switch Work in the background.
Repeat this procedure for all three Samsung components, ensuring that notifications are instant and sleep and activity tracking is not interrupted.
It is also recommended to fix important applications in the “Recent” menu (block them with a swipe down) so that the system does not clean them from RAM if there is a shortage of resources.
Compatibility table and functional limitations
Despite the successful connection, some features may work differently or not available on non-Samsung smartphones. Below is a table of major limitations.
| Function | Status on Xiaomi | Commentary |
|---|---|---|
| ECG (Electrocardiogram) | ❌ It's not working. | Available only on Samsung phones with a license. |
| Pressure measurement | ❌ It's not working. | It requires calibration through the Samsung Health Monitor app. |
| Notifications | ✅ It's working. | It requires the correct configuration of MIUI permissions. |
| Answering calls | ✅ It's working. | Through the clock speaker or connected headset. |
| Samsung Pay | ⚠️ Partially. | Depends on the region and the support of the NFC bank. |
It’s worth noting that the lack of ECG and pressure measurement is not due to the watch’s technical limitations, but to software locks on Samsung’s part.The sensors in the Galaxy Watch 3 are physically present, but the Samsung Health app on third-party phones doesn’t activate these modules.
Can I bypass an ECG block?
Solving Connection Problems and Errors
In the process of operation, various failures can occur, and most often users complain that the watch “falls off” or stop transmitting step data.
If the watch is not in search:
- 🔍 Make sure the watch is not paired with another phone (the previous owner or your old device).
- 🔍 Reset network settings on the clock through the Settings menu → General. → Reset.
- 🔍 Clear the Galaxy Wearable app cache in your phone settings.
If no notifications are received:
Check if the watch is not enabled “Do Not Disturb” or “Theater Mode.” Also make sure that the Galaxy Wearable app in the Settings → Notifications section is ticked against the desired applications (WhatsApp, Telegram, SMS).
⚠️ Note: When updating the watch firmware through the app, make sure the phone is not locked by the lock screen, as this can interrupt data transfer and damage the watch software.
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90% of Galaxy Watch 3 problems on Xiaomi are solved by setting up the “No Limits” item in the battery menu for all Samsung service applications.
Additional configuration of the interface and widgets
Once connected successfully, it’s worth taking time to personalize.The Galaxy Watch 3 features a classic design with a rotating bezel that can be used efficiently in the menu.
In the Galaxy Wearable app, go to Dials, where you can download new designs or customize existing ones by adding the desired complications (widgets) to the screen. Set up application groups: you can sort icons by alphabet or frequency of use, which is convenient for quick access.
Don't forget to set up gestures. Rotating the bezel allows you to scroll through lists, and double-clicking the home button triggers the last app. These settings are in the Settings of the watch → Advanced.
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Use the Always On Screen (AOD) feature with caution - on the Galaxy Watch 3, it significantly reduces battery life, draining the device in 24 hours.